A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Messina vs. Annecy for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Messina or Annecy?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Annecy can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a stunning, breathtaking, and quaint alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Messina and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Messina and Annecy are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Messina attracts visitors for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Annecy is more touristy than Messina and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Messina different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Annecy and Messina. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Messina or Annecy?

Both Messina and Annecy have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Annecy offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Is the Food Better in Messina or Annecy? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Annecy is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Annecy have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

Messina is a great port city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Messina has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Beaches?

Messina is adequate for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is renowned for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Messina is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Annecy. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Messina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Annecy?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Annecy and Messina.

Messina is a great destination for shopping. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Families?

Both Messina and Annecy are superb to visit with kids.

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is renowned for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Annecy is a great alpine town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina and Annecy are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Messina is a good port city to visit for backpackers. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Plenty of backpackers visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Students?

Messina is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Annecy is not popular with students.

Is Messina or Annecy Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Annecy.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Messina or Annecy a more walkable city?

Messina and Annecy both are superb when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

Annecy is a very walkable port city. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Messina Worth Visiting? and Is Annecy Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Messina?

How long in Messina or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Messina or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Annecy due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Messina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Annecy, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Annecy than Messina. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Annecy that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Messina or Annecy?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Messina. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Annecy is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This alpine town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Messina or Annecy?

Messina is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Annecy has to offer.

Five days in Messina or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Annecy is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Messina or Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Messina. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Since Annecy is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Messina and Annecy, we can see that Annecy is more expensive. And not only is Messina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Messina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Messina and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy than you might in Messina.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Messina Expensive? and Is Annecy Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Messina or Annecy?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Messina and Annecy, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Messina or Annecy?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Messina or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Messina during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Messina in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Messina is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Messina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Messina. In the summer, Messina often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in July than Annecy. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Annecy. Most visitors come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Messina is generally much warmer than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 21°C (69°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Messina usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Messina usually receives more rain than Annecy. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Messina or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Messina as well as Annecy. The winter months attract visitors to Messina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. Messina is much warmer than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Messina often gets more sunshine than Annecy. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the winter. Messina usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Messina is a little warmer than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Messina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually receives more sunshine than Annecy during spring. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Messina usually receives less rain than Annecy. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Messina